John 3:3-8 - Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.'

In this passage, Jesus has an encounter with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council. Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, recognizing Him as a teacher from God. Jesus tells Nicodemus that unless one is "born again," he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus misunderstands, questioning how an old man can physically be born again. Jesus clarifies that one must be born of water and the Spirit to enter God's kingdom. Just as the wind blows where it wishes, we cannot control the Spirit or where it moves. Everyone born of the Spirit experiences this new birth.

This passage highlights the vital truth that we must be born again in order to receive salvation and enter God's kingdom. Our first, physical birth only brings fleshly life, inherited from Adam. But being born again of the Spirit brings new, eternal spiritual life as children of God. This reminds me that religious heritage, knowledge or effort cannot save me. I must surrender my life to Christ and receive His gift of new birth by faith. Though it was confusing to Nicodemus, I now understand this truth that allows me to see and enter God's kingdom. Just as I did not control my natural birth, I cannot control the Spirit's work in transforming me into a new creation in Christ. But I can respond in faith and obedience, nurturing the new life He has planted within me. This passage fills me with awe and gratitude for the gift of new life we have in Jesus.

Father God, thank You for making a way through Christ for me to be born again as Your beloved child. Forgive me when I try to earn my salvation through religious effort rather than resting in what Jesus has already accomplished for me. Help me walk daily in the newness of life You have given me, yielding myself fully to the leading of Your indwelling Spirit. Transform me more and more into the image of Christ, that I might live a life bringing glory to You. In Jesus' name, amen.